The November 14 earthquake and subsequent aftershocks have led to numerous landslide dams being formed in North Canterbury and Kaikoura rivers and streams. Information on these landslide dams is available here. As a precaution it is strongly advised to keep away from all riverbeds north of the Waiau River in case there are any sudden releases of water.

Slick work cleans up diesel

Published: 18/07/2012 11:19 a.m.

Diesel that was sighted on Monday in a storm water drain and in part of the Heathcote River appears to be all gone now.

Environment Canterbury received several calls from the public on the Pollution Hotline, concerned about an oily sheen on the water and the noticeable smell of fuel.

“We responded quickly and worked alongside staff from Christchurch City Council and City Care trying to determine where the diesel was coming from,” says Nathan Dougherty, Resource Management Area Leader

“The nature of the storm water drains in the area can make it difficult to source discharges like this. However, we believe the diesel is from road run-off and had been pooled in a section of earthquake damaged drain. It then got flushed out by an increased water flow from a nearby pumping station.”

“An oil absorbent boom was used to prevent further discharges and to help disperse the diesel on the surface of the water. We’re pleased the problem has been resolved quickly and with minimum fuss.”

The diesel entered into the Heathcote River from Jackson’s Creek, a storm water outfall at Waltham Road and was sighted as far downstream as Hansons Park.

Dealing with pollution events in local waterways is Environment Canterbury’s responsibility and we rely on the public alerting us to any potential problems.